Excellent advice, Klaus.  I did a test as you suggested: test track connected directly to the LZV100, LH100 plugged directly into the LZV100 (same with the LH90).  Same result-- odd behavior all around, can't turn headlights on any of the loks on.  I did a reset of the LZV100, same thing.  So it must be a problem with the LZV100.

Tim, your advice is good.  I'll keep an eye out on eBay.  In the meantime, I can't run trains. smiley: frown

Thanks to all for your input.